Circuit Breaker Racking Mechanism for Remote 3D Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distribution boards and circuit breakers require manual operation for connecting and disconnecting, which reduces accuracy and efficiency, and poses safety risks due to the need for manual handling of heavy components.
Innovation Solution
A draw in and out apparatus with a power unit equipped with a motor member and a key mechanism that allows for automated and remote operation, along with a support structure that adjusts position and size to accommodate various circuit breakers and distribution boards, using a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system for precise alignment and magnetic coupling for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual operation is used for connecting and disconnecting circuit breakers, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service operation where the draw in and out apparatus autonomously performs circuit breaker insertion and withdrawal operations without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving productivity while maintaining acceptable device complexity through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated motor-driven system that uses a motor member to drive the circuit breaker in and out, substituting human labor with mechanical automation to enhance efficiency and accuracy
2Device complexity
If manual operation is used for handling heavy circuit breakers, then device complexity is reduced, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The automated apparatus performs the heavy lifting and handling operations autonomously, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle heavy circuit breakers, thereby improving safety while maintaining simple operational control through automated sequences
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated motor-driven mechanism that safely manages heavy circuit breakers, substituting human physical interaction with automated mechanical systems to prevent safety accidents
3Extent of automation
If additional actuators are installed for remote racking system, then extent of automation is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The single motor member performs multiple functions by driving the circuit breaker both in and out through reversible rotation, eliminating the need for separate actuators for different operations, thereby achieving remote automation while maintaining simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of multiple potential actuators into a single motor member that handles both insertion and withdrawal operations, merging multiple functions into one component to reduce overall system complexity while maintaining full automation capability
4Manufacturing precision
If precise control signal input is required for circuit breaker movement, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that automatically detect the circuit breaker's position and status, adjusting control signals as needed without requiring precise manual input from operators, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while improving ease of operation through automated feedback loops
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates accurate, efficient, and safe automated operation of circuit breakers, reducing manual labor and minimizing safety hazards by enabling remote control and adjustable positioning to fit various board and breaker sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a power unit movably coupled to the third support unit along a third axis, wherein the third support unit includes a bar member extending along the third axis; and an adjustment member movably coupled to the bar member and detachably coupled to the power unit
Implementation Method 2
magnetic coupling for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A draw in and out apparatus is disclosed. A draw in and out apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure may include a first support unit detachably connected to an external distribution board; a second support unit movably coupled to the first support unit along a first axis; a third support unit movably coupled to the second support unit along a second axis; a power unit movably coupled to the third support unit along a third axis, wherein the third support unit includes a bar member extending along the third axis; and an adjustment member movably coupled to the bar member and detachably coupled to the power unit.